Towns Of South Coast


Gualala CA
Point Arena CA
Anchor Bay CA
Elk CA
Manchester CA
Irish Beach CA

South Coast Information


The breathtaking South Coast region of Mendocino County, often dubbed 'the wild coast,' provides visitors with a look at the true beauty of Northern California, unspoiled by tall buildings, air pollution, and excessive population.

The South Coast of Mendocino stretches from below the city of Gualala to the town of Elk. A drive up or down Highway 1 through this region will allow guests to see some of the area's most interesting and lovely sights, from majestic lighthouses and soaring redwoods to pristine rocky beaches (just perfect for outdoor weddings!) and quirky little towns with art galleries full of the finest local creations.

The southernmost city of Gualala (pronounced Wah-la-la by most locals) is located at the point where the river of the same name empties into the mighty Pacific Ocean. The name is taken from the Native American phrase which translates as 'where the water flows down.'

Gualala is a favorite stop for adventure travelers, offering a variety of fun activities. Angling is quite popular here and given the town's location, guests can enjoy both river and ocean fishing. The Gualala River is also the perfect place for kayaking and a few local outfitters rent the vessels to eager visitors on warm summer days. Diving for abalone is also a favorite outdoor pursuit.

Less athletic visitors will want to visit the Gualala Arts Center, where you can enjoy varied art exhibits, concerts, theatrical productions, lectures, and workshops, all dedicated to promoting the visual and performing arts.

If you're in town at the right time, you might even catch the Redwood Coast Whale and Jazz Festival (April), the Art in the Redwoods Festival (August), or the Studio Discovery Tour (September).

Gualala lodging is varied, ranging from hotels and small inns to campgrounds or vacation rentals suitable for those who prefer a little more privacy. Check out Sea Ranch Rentals, unique private homes that offer a spectacular ocean view and a host of wonderful amenities.

Dining in Gualala can be an adventure as well, with restaurants offering a variety of cuisine, from casual cafes to fine dining establishments to ethnic offerings.

Tiny Anchor Bay, just above Gualala, is home to Schooner Gulch State Park, a good place to stop on your way up Highway 1 to enjoy fishing, windsurfing, and even a little scuba diving. From the parking area, trailheads lead to Schooner Gulch Beach to the south and the breathtaking Bowling Ball Beach to the north.

Further up the coast, you'll reach the city of Point Arena. The area is most famous for the historic Point Arena Lighthouse, which was constructed in 1870 and stands 115 feet tall. Climb to the top for an amazing view of the Mendocino Coast.

For art lovers, Point Arena CITYART houses the work of talented local artists, giving them a place to exhibit their work, where it can be enjoyed by both the community and its visitors, and providing a location dedicated to furthering appreciation for the visual arts.

About 6 miles north of Point Arena is the town of Manchester, where visitors often stop to enjoy the state park. The five miles of sand at Manchester State Beach welcomes visitors to sit and relax a while or take a leisurely stroll. Have your camera ready! You'll be treated to miles of coastal wildflowers, unique tundra swans (with 85' wingspans!), and you'll find it's a great area for steelhead and salmon fishing.

Irish Beach is a growing real estate community of homeowners and renters who've come to the magnificent Northern California coast for vacation or for some long-term peace and quiet. Irish Beach is gated and access by automobile is restricted to owners and renters, but the general public can take the long hike out to the beautiful beach, where they can bird watch, fly a kite, or do a little fishing.

When you reach the town of Elk, you've made it to the end of Mendocino County's South Coast. This small seaside town of only 200 people offers one of the most breathtaking Pacific Ocean views of any point along the coast.

Be sure to stop at Greenwood State Beach where there's a fascinating little visitor's center that tells the story of long-ago days in this tiny lumber town.

Bed and Breakfast lodging is particularly popular here and Elk is a wonderful location for a long, romantic weekend away from the hubbub of the city.